On the problem of van der Waals forces in dielectric media

TL;DR

This paper reviews the challenges in extending Lifshitz theory of van der Waals forces to dielectric media, discussing electromagnetic stress tensors, mechanical equilibrium, and the nature of repulsive interactions in liquids.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of the theoretical issues and physical interpretations related to van der Waals forces in dielectric media, highlighting the importance of equilibrium conditions.

Findings

Analysis of stress tensor properties in media

Discussion on conditions for mechanical equilibrium

Insights into repulsive van der Waals interactions

Abstract

A short review of the problems which arise in the generalization of the Lifshitz theory of van der Waals force in the case of forces inside dielectric media is presented, together with some historical remarks. General properties of the stress tensor of equilibrium electromagnetic field in media are discussed, and the importance of the conditions of mechanical equilibrium is stressed. The physical meaning of the repulsive van der Waals interaction between bodies immersed in a liquid is discussed.